Over the Cattle Guard: Week 6 Updates | Major Votes, Budget Reform & Protecting Kansas Families

This week was Turnaround Week, when the House and Senate pass their respective bills and send them for review in the other chamber. Many critical decisions were made, and I want to highlight a few of the most impactful.

Overriding the Governor’s Veto of the Help Not Harm Act (SB 63)

A major victory this week was overriding the Governor’s veto of SB 63, the Help Not Harm Act. This bill ensures that minors suffering from gender dysphoria cannot receive irreversible medical treatments that could have lifelong consequences.

We don’t allow minors to get tattoos because of the permanent effects—so why would we allow them to alter their bodies in ways that can’t be undone? This is a win for protecting children from radical policies that prioritize ideology over their well-being.

Early Budget Adoption – HB 2007

For the first time in history, the Kansas House passed a budget this early in the session, allowing for more debate and adjustments.

Key points of the budget:

• Fully funds education with an additional $10M for Special Education

• Funds 320 new I/DD waiver slots for individuals with disabilities

• Cuts spending compared to the previous year while maintaining essential services

This budget is a step toward fiscal responsibility and ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent wisely.

HB 2311 – Protecting Religious Freedoms in Foster Care & Adoption

HB 2311 protects foster and adoptive parents from being disqualified based on their religious or moral beliefs. This bill ensures that faith-based families are not excluded from providing safe, loving homes to children in need.

HCR 5008 – Holding Unelected Bureaucrats Accountable

Right now, state agencies can impose regulations without direct legislative approval. HCR 5008 aims to change that, ensuring that elected representatives—not unelected officials—have the final say on policies that affect Kansas businesses, families, and farmers.

If passed by the Senate, voters will have the chance to approve this amendment and restore transparency to the government.

HB 2119 – Ending Wasteful Housing Tax Credits

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program has spent $1.5 billion in just three years yet has failed to provide affordable housing solutions. The House voted to eliminate this ineffective program and seek better alternatives.

What’s Next?

These bills will now move to the Senate, where they will be reviewed and debated. I appreciate your input and encourage you to reach out to me at [email protected] with your thoughts.

Thank you for allowing me to serve. Please continue to pray for wisdom as we work toward a stronger, more accountable Kansas.

Best,
Dale Helwig
State Representative, District 1